McMath–Hulbert Observatory in Lake Angelus, Michigan, began in 1929 as a private solar observatory founded by Francis Charles McMath, Robert Raynolds McMath, and Judge Henry Hulbert. It quickly gained a distinctive place in solar research, especially after adding a reflector telescope and a spectroheliokinematograph in 1932. The McMaths became known for pioneering films of celestial phenomena, including the first movies of solar prominences in motion. Deeded to the University of Michigan in 1932, it remained under university operation until 1981, later contributing to infrared solar spectroscopy and a 1950s solar flare patrol program before returning to private ownership.